Primary finding
Probable cause
The student pilot's delayed use of carburetor heat. The soft terrain in the landing area was a factor.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
Student pilot on a cross country experienced a partial loss of engine power and could not maintain altitude. The pilot made a forced landing in a snow covered field, and nosed over during landing rollout. The engine was examined by the faa, and no conditions which would preclude normal operation were found. The pilot told the FAA inspector that she did not use the carburetor heat until just before she landed. The temperature was 38 degrees f, and the dew point was 28 degrees f. These conditions are favorable for carburetor icing in cruise flight.
Source record
Factual narrative
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